Stand the Watch Ceremony honors veterans, raises suicide prevention awareness
GULFPORT, Miss. (WXXV)- September is National Suicide Prevention month, a time to recognize the importance of mental health and support for those who served.
In recognition of National Suicide Prevention, the Stand the Watch Ceremony at Riemann Funeral Home brought veterans and community members together to raise awareness on mental health challenges veterans can face. Patriot Guard Rider Assistant State Captain Bob Harwood said, “Approximately 22 veterans a day pass away from suicide that have been in the military and this event brings more awareness to people that there is help out there. We’ve done many funerals for people that have committed suicide and the families find it comforting that even people that don’t know them care and are behind them in support.”
The ceremony featured a flag-draped casket and a moment of silence along with a personal story from a mother who lost her son, a veteran, to suicide. Red Star Mom Mejia Johnson said, “When people struggle, they feel complete alone silence. So, it’s the respect of those who are struggling to show that quiet is hard. The more we stand in silence and acknowledge that suicide is a real problem, especially in the south, then it brings more awareness.”
Law enforcement escorted the hearse to Jackson, Mississippi where the honor guard removed and folded the flag and Taps, a military tribute honoring the fallen, was played to conclude the Stand the Watch ceremony.
If you or a veteran you know is struggling, help is available around the clock. Call 988 and press one or text ‘838255’ for confidential veteran support.
